Caution! Tap water on vacation: healthy or dangerous?

Caution! Tap water on vacation: healthy or dangerous?

In Germany it is common to drink tap water without having to worry about your health. But you should exercise caution when on vacation, even in many European countries. The ADAC warns that this can be crucial to avoid dehydration, especially during physical exertion or high temperatures. On hot days, a lot of fluid loss through sweating can occur, which is why sufficient water intake is necessary both on the beach and when sightseeing. Tap water is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to bottled water. Many travelers do not want to do without tap water during their vacation, but this is not always safe ADAC reported.

In Germany, tap water is considered one of the best controlled foods. Strict regulations, such as the EU Drinking Water Directive and the German Drinking Water Ordinance, ensure that water quality is regularly checked and updated. Germs, pollutants and unpleasant tastes are extremely rare in German tap water. But when you're on vacation, the tap water in many countries doesn't meet the high German standards. Problems such as outdated pipes, inadequate filtering or contamination by pollutants and pathogens can pose serious health risks. Loud ERGO travel insurance The risk of gastrointestinal diseases or other infections is significantly increased there.

Risks of drinking tap water abroad

Drinking tap water in other countries poses various risks. The quality of water can vary greatly, which can lead to a number of health problems. Particularly common are infections caused by bacteria or other pathogens that can thrive in a less stringent regulatory environment.

It is therefore advisable to find out about local water quality, especially in countries where drinking water does not meet the high German standards. Even though many travelers hope to refresh themselves with cool tap water on hot days, they are better off using bottled water to avoid health risks.